Best Thick Exercise Mats for Tumbling: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Finding the right thick exercise mat is crucial for practicing tumbling safely and effectively. A good mat needs to strike the perfect balance between soft cushioning for impact absorption and firm support for stable takeoffs and landings. After testing numerous options in our home gym, we’ve determined that the Polar Aurora 4’x10’x2 Thick Folding Gymnastics Mat stands out as the best overall choice. Its exceptional durability, generous size, and high-density foam core provide a professional-grade experience at a fantastic value, making it the ideal foundation for athletes of all levels.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Thick Exercise Mats for Tumbling

#1 Polar Aurora 4’x10’x2 Thick Folding Gymnastics Mat – Ideal for: All-Around Home Tumbling & Exercise

Right out of the box, we were impressed by the Polar Aurora 4’x10’x2 Thick Folding Gymnastics Mat. Its generous 40 square feet of surface area provides ample room for tumbling passes, martial arts drills, or general stretching. The 2-inch thick high-density EPE foam core strikes an excellent balance, offering firm support that prevents your hands and feet from sinking during skills like handsprings, yet providing enough cushion to absorb impacts from less-than-perfect landings. We found the PU leather cover to be incredibly resilient; it’s non-slip and stood up to repeated use without showing signs of wear. This sentiment was echoed by numerous long-term users, one of whom reported their mat was still in perfect condition after eight years of regular family use. Portability is another strong suit. The four-panel design folds down compactly, and the sewn-in handles make it easy to move and store. We also appreciated the Velcro on all sides, which not only allows for connecting multiple mats to create a longer tumbling strip but also helps it grip to carpeted surfaces for added stability.

#2 We Sell Mats Gymnastics Mat – Perfect for: Serious At-Home Skill Practice

The We Sell Mats Gymnastics Mat immediately feels like a piece of professional equipment. We tested the 2-inch thick version and found it to be exceptionally firm, providing the stable base needed for gymnasts and cheerleaders to practice their skills with confidence. This isn’t a mat you sink into; it’s designed for performance, absorbing impact without sacrificing the rebound needed for dynamic movements. The durable vinyl surface is tough and resists tearing, a key feature for withstanding the rigors of repeated drills. Our experience was confirmed by an acrobatics teacher who noted the mats were firm enough for kids to jump on without risk of injury. While it can feel a bit hard initially, users report it breaks in perfectly over time. The four-panel fold and hook-and-loop fasteners make it simple to store or connect with other mats for a larger practice area. The only minor drawback we noticed upon unboxing was a strong chemical smell, a point several users also mentioned. However, we found it dissipated after airing it out for a few days.

#3 AKSPORT Gymnastics Air Mat Inflatable Tumbling Track – Suits: Advanced Tumbling & Cheerleading

For tumblers looking to level up, the AKSPORT Gymnastics Air Mat Inflatable Tumbling Track is a game-changer. Unlike traditional foam mats, this inflatable track provides a bouncy, responsive surface that’s more akin to a gymnastics spring floor. We found the included electric pump inflated the 13-foot mat in just a few minutes, and the high-quality BRAVO valve held the air securely for weeks of testing. The 4-inch thickness, when inflated, offers a fantastic combination of cushion and spring, making it easier and safer to practice advanced skills like back handsprings and tucks. As one user happily reported, her daughter can perform three standing back handsprings in a row on it. It’s surprisingly sturdy and doesn’t lose air even with constant jumping. When practice is over, it deflates quickly and rolls up into a surprisingly compact carry bag. While the bouncy surface is a huge advantage for dynamic skills, it’s less suitable for foundational exercises that require a completely stable base. We also noted some user reports of slow leaks developing over time, so careful handling is essential.

#4 Tumbl Trak Folding Tumbling Mat – Ideal for: Gym-Quality Training Surface

The moment we unfolded the Tumbl Trak Folding Tumbling Mat, the quality was palpable. This is the exact type of panel mat you find in professional gymnastics gyms, and for good reason. It’s constructed with heavy-duty 18oz knife-coated vinyl and a core of 1 ⅜-inch cross-linked EVA foam. This combination creates an incredibly firm and stable surface that’s ideal for everything from handstands and walkovers to standing flips. We found it provided excellent shock absorption without the “squishy” feeling that can throw off balance. A retired gymnast who reviewed the mat confirmed our findings, stating it’s exactly what’s needed for safe skill work. The durability is top-notch; it’s designed to be used on hard surfaces and can withstand years of rigorous training. While it’s one of the thinner mats on our list, the density of the foam makes up for it, providing robust protection. Its premium construction comes with a higher price tag, but for serious athletes who demand gym-quality performance and longevity at home, we believe it’s a worthy investment.

#5 Giantex 4’x10’x 2″ 4-Panel Folding Gymnastics Mat – Perfect for: Versatile Family Use

The Giantex 4’x10’x 2″ 4-Panel Folding Gymnastics Mat is a fantastic all-rounder that shines in a busy household. Much like our top pick, it offers a large 4’x10′ surface and a 2-inch thick EPE foam core that we found to be both supportive and comfortable. It’s firm enough for a teenager to practice cartwheels and roundoffs, yet soft enough to create a safe play space for a toddler. We tested its durability by using it for general workouts, and the tear-resistant PU leather surface held up beautifully and was a breeze to wipe clean. Many users commented on its versatility, with one noting it was perfect for their 10-year-old’s constant flipping and another using two of them to create a large, durable play mat for their 7-month-old. The folding design and carrying handles make it easy for even a child to set up and put away, which is a huge plus for keeping the living room tidy. A minor design flaw we noted, also pointed out by a user, is that the exposed Velcro edges can be abrasive on bare skin when using a single mat.

#6 We Sell Mats Gymnastics Octagon Skill Shape Tumbling Mat – Suits: Targeted Skill Development

The We Sell Mats Gymnastics Octagon Skill Shape Tumbling Mat is not a traditional flat mat, but an indispensable tool for mastering specific tumbling skills. We used the medium-sized octagon to assist with drills for backbends, walkovers, and back handsprings. Its unique shape provides support and helps the athlete roll through the motion, building muscle memory and confidence. The construction is solid, featuring high-quality foam and the same durable 18-ounce vinyl found on their flat mats. It’s firm enough to provide support without collapsing under weight. We saw firsthand how it can accelerate learning, a sentiment shared by a user who bought one for her daughter to practice back handsprings daily instead of just once a week at the gym. One important note is to get the sizing right; we saw feedback from a user who initially bought a size too large for their child, highlighting the importance of consulting the size chart. This is a specialized piece of equipment, but for any tumbler focused on mastering walkovers or handsprings, it’s an incredibly effective training aid.

#7 Kangaroo Hoppers Folding Gymnastics Wedge Mat – Ideal for: Beginner Skill Progression

The Kangaroo Hoppers Folding Gymnastics Wedge Mat, often called a “cheese mat,” is a foundational tool for any budding gymnast. We found its gentle incline perfect for teaching forward rolls, backward rolls, and the basic body positions for walkovers. The high-density EPE foam is quite firm, providing a stable surface that doesn’t squish, which is critical for learning proper technique. One of its best features is the folding design; it transforms from a wedge into a 17-inch cube, which we used as a sturdy block for conditioning jumps or as a spotting block. The PU cover proved to be durable and easy to clean after our testing sessions. As one reviewer noted, the quality is reminiscent of mats found in a gymnastics gym and holds up well to constant use. While some younger users found the foam a bit too firm if they fell on it, we feel this firmness is necessary for its function as a training tool. For building fundamental tumbling skills from the ground up, this versatile wedge is an excellent choice.

#8 Z ATHLETIC Folding Gymnastics Mat – Perfect for: Young Beginners Learning Fundamentals

The Z ATHLETIC Folding Gymnastics Mat is brilliantly designed for the youngest athletes just starting their gymnastics journey. What immediately sets it apart are the printed graphics. On one side, hand and foot placements guide left and right-handed cartwheels, and on the reverse, a white line mimics a balance beam. In our testing with a beginner, these visual cues were incredibly effective. One user reported her daughter mastered her cartwheel in just two days using this mat. The 1.5-inch open-cell foam core is softer and more forgiving than many other mats on this list, making it perfect for building confidence and cushioning the inevitable tumbles of a learning child. It’s lightweight, easy to fold, and has handles, so even a small child can manage it. While we found the 6-foot length and 2-foot width adequate for basic skills, it’s smaller than standard panel mats and might be outgrown quickly. For a serious, competitive gymnast, a thicker, firmer mat would be better, but for introducing a child to the fundamentals of tumbling and balance in a fun, supportive way, this mat is an outstanding tool.

#9 Matladin Folding Gymnastics Wedge Mat – Suits: Durable Skill Training

The Matladin Folding Gymnastics Wedge Mat impressed us with its robust, commercial-grade construction. The 840 Denier Vinyl cover feels exceptionally tough and durable, designed to withstand the wear and tear of a studio or a very active home gym. We found the high-density EPE foam inside to be very resilient, providing firm support for practicing back walkovers and other incline-based skills. A gymnastics coach with 30 years of experience praised the mat’s quality, stating it was surprisingly good for home equipment. The zippered cover is a nice touch, allowing you to remove the padding for a thorough cleaning of the vinyl. Like other wedge mats, it’s a specialized tool perfect for skill development. We noted that while it’s advertised as 55 inches long, one user measured it at 56 inches, a minor discrepancy but worth noting. Some users also mentioned a strong chemical smell upon unboxing that took a few days to fade. Overall, if you’re looking for a cheese mat built for longevity, this is a top contender.

#10 Matladin Incline Folding Gymnastics Wedge Mat – Ideal for: Toddlers and Small Spaces

For those with limited space or very young children, the Matladin Incline Folding Gymnastics Wedge Mat is an excellent, compact option. This mat shares the same durable 840 Denier vinyl and high-density EPE foam as its larger counterparts, just in a smaller package. We found it to be the perfect size for toddlers and preschoolers to safely practice rolling, climbing, and basic tumbling. Its smaller footprint makes it easy to fit in a playroom or bedroom without taking over the entire space. Several users confirmed it’s an ideal size for 3-4 year olds. We especially liked how it can be used for creative play; one reviewer recommended getting two, noting their 14-month-old loved using them as ramps and blocks. The quality of the materials and stitching is excellent, ensuring it can withstand enthusiastic play. While it’s too short for older children to practice skills like walkovers, it serves as a fantastic introduction to gymnastics equipment and a durable play accessory for the youngest members of the family.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Thickness and Density: For tumbling, a mat that is 1.5 to 2 inches thick is generally ideal for panel mats. This provides enough cushioning for impacts without being so soft that it compromises stability. Inflatable air tracks are thicker (4+ inches) but their firmness is adjustable. The key is high-density foam (like EPE or EVA), which provides support and shock absorption.
• Size: A standard panel mat is 4 feet wide. Length can vary, but for practicing tumbling passes like roundoff back handsprings, longer is better. A 10-foot mat like the Polar Aurora provides a good amount of space. Always measure your available floor space before buying.
• Cover Material: Look for durable, non-slip, and easy-to-clean materials. PU (polyurethane) leather and heavy-duty vinyl (18oz or higher) are industry standards. They are puncture-resistant and can be easily wiped down with soap and water.
• Portability and Storage: Most tumbling mats for home use are designed to be portable. Features like a multi-panel folding design and sewn-in carry handles are essential for easy transport and storage. Check the folded dimensions to ensure it will fit in your intended storage space.
• Connectivity: If you plan to create a longer tumbling strip in the future, look for mats with hook-and-loop (Velcro) fasteners on the ends. This allows you to securely connect multiple mats together for a seamless practice surface.

Understanding Foam Types: EPE vs. EVA

You’ll often see two main types of foam mentioned for tumbling mats: Expanded Polyethylene (EPE) and Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA). EPE foam is lightweight and provides excellent shock absorption and cushioning, making it very common in mats like the Polar Aurora and Giantex. It strikes a great balance for general use. Cross-linked Closed Cell EVA foam, found in the Tumbl Trak mat, is significantly denser and firmer. This makes it feel more like a professional gym floor, offering superior stability and rebound for advanced skills but with less of a “soft” feel. Your choice depends on your training level: EPE is great for all-around use and beginners, while EVA is preferred by competitive athletes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying Too Thin: A standard yoga mat is not sufficient for tumbling. You need the impact absorption of a mat that is at least 1.5 inches thick to protect joints.
• Ignoring Firmness: A mat that is too soft can be dangerous. Your hands and feet can sink in, causing wrist or ankle injuries and making it difficult to push off for skills. Look for “high-density” foam.
• Forgetting to Measure: A 4’x10′ mat is large. Always measure your room to ensure you have enough clear space to use the mat safely, with extra room around the edges.
• Using Mats on Improper Surfaces: While some mats can be used outside, dragging them over rough concrete can damage the vinyl cover. For longevity, use them on flat, clean surfaces like hardwood, tile, or low-pile carpet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 2-inch or 4-inch thick mat better for practicing advanced tumbling skills?

It depends on the mat type. For a traditional foam mat, 2 inches of high-density foam is excellent for advanced skills, providing a firm, stable base. A 4-inch foam mat might be too soft and cause instability. However, for an inflatable air mat, 4 inches is a standard thickness that provides the necessary bounce and cushioning for advanced tumbling passes.

Does a thicker mat mean it’s too soft and lacks stability for standing skills?

Not necessarily. The key is foam density, not just thickness. A 2-inch mat made of high-density EPE or EVA foam will be very firm and stable. A thicker mat made of low-density foam will be soft and unsuitable for standing skills. Always look for “high-density” in the product description to ensure stability.

What is high-density EPE foam and is it the best core material for thick mats?

High-density Expanded Polyethylene (EPE) foam is a lightweight, durable, and resilient closed-cell foam. It offers excellent shock absorption, making it a fantastic and widely used core material for tumbling mats. While denser foams like cross-linked EVA might be preferred by elite gymnasts for their firmness, EPE provides the best all-around performance for home use, balancing safety, comfort, and stability.

Can a thick mat adequately absorb the impact from jumps, flips, and falls?

Yes, that is their primary purpose. A 1.5 to 2-inch thick mat made of high-density foam is specifically designed to dissipate the force of impact from dynamic movements, protecting an athlete’s joints (wrists, ankles, knees) and spine from the strain of repeated landings and accidental falls.

How much heavier and more expensive are 4-inch mats compared to 2-inch mats?

Generally, a 4-inch foam mat would be significantly heavier and more expensive than a 2-inch mat of the same footprint due to using double the material. However, the most common 4-inch mats for tumbling are inflatable air tracks, which can be comparable in weight and price to high-end 2-inch foam mats.

What is the minimum thickness recommended for practicing back handsprings safely?

We recommend a minimum thickness of 1.5 inches of high-density foam. However, a 2-inch thick mat is ideal as it provides a better margin of safety and impact absorption. For learning the skill, a specialized trainer like an octagon or an inflatable air track can also be extremely beneficial.

Are thick mats suitable for martial arts throws and grappling?

Yes, many thick tumbling mats are also excellent for martial arts. A 2-inch thick, high-density foam mat provides the firmness needed for footwork and stances, while also offering enough cushion to safely practice throws, takedowns, and grappling. Look for a mat with a durable, non-abrasive vinyl or PU leather cover.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After extensive testing and review, we confidently stand by our top pick: the Polar Aurora 4’x10’x2 Thick Folding Gymnastics Mat. It masterfully combines all the essential elements needed for safe and effective tumbling practice at home. Its generous 10-foot length provides ample space for skill progression, while the 2-inch high-density EPE foam core delivers the perfect blend of firm support and impact-absorbing cushion. We were consistently impressed by its durability, portability, and thoughtful features like the connectable Velcro ends. For its exceptional performance, versatility, and outstanding value, the Polar Aurora mat is the clear winner and our strongest recommendation for tumblers of any age or skill level.

Last update on 2025-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API